Impact of Water Temperature on the Survival of Angler- and Tournament-Caught Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides are a frequently sought after fish species by recreational anglers in the United States, and information about the survival of angler- and tournament-caught Largemouth Bass is critical to their effective management. We measured the survival of Largemouth Bass subjected to simulated angling followed by immediate release and simulated tournament conditions across a range of temperatures at which recreational fishing occurs (17, 21, 25, 29 and 33°C).   At each temperature, we also tested the effect of live well (LW) temperature manipulations (ΔT) of −4, 0, and + 4°C.  LW dissolved oxygen concentration was maintained above 5 mg/L in all trials.  All fish subjected to simulated angler capture and immediate release survived 5-day retention at any temperature.   Five-day survival of fish subjected to simulated tournament procedures was >80% at acclimation temperatures of ≤29°C, decreased significantly at 33°C, and was 0% at 33°C /+4 ΔT.   Results suggest that the survival of caught and immediately released largemouth bass is high across a range of water temperatures at which angling occurs; however, decreased survival can be expected in largemouth bass subjected to tournament handling as ambient temperatures approach 33°C.